Thursday, January 26, 2012

Such an Inspiration

I try to find the positive on most things in life, no matter how difficult it can be.  Sometimes I find myself meeting people that inspire the hell out of me.  It always amazes me because you can tell they are just being themselves not trying to impress or inspire anyone.  I met someone this morning who falls in that category.

I work in the hospitality industry (for now..but not much longer I believe) and I meet new people everyday.  I had a gentleman come into my work who was blind, and partially deaf.  After speaking to the gentleman I learned he was not born that way.  He suffered a tragic accident.  Despite all he has been through, his outlook was so positive, it was inspirational.  He does receive assistance from his yellow lab dog, who you can tell adores his owner. The gentleman came in to workout on the treadmill.  After declining assistance, I watched how he managed to set the treadmill to what he wanted which was at a fast pace incline.  I have to be honest I am a klutz and when I run on the treadmill I have to watch my feet otherwise I will fall.  I can't imagine doing it without seeing. He proceeded to workout for a hour in the gym while greeting everyone around him. 

Would I be the same way if I was in his shoes?  I honestly do not know.  I do realize everyday is a gift and you can't take things for granted, but sometimes life gets to you.  We tend to take our senses for granted and even the simple things in life we forget how precious they are.  Meeting people like this gentleman can make you feel so thankful for so many things.  He shows people including myself that despite what hand was delivered to you, you can still come out on top, and come out better for it.  He also teaches to look past his disability or flaw for he doesn't see it that way.  He sees it as a blessing for he appreciates life so much more. He sets an example for so many of us out there.  It was such a pleasure meeting him, and he truly made my day.